Life-Like crossing gates (lights & sound) outside???

[skippygp123]

My mom bought me a G Scale Life-Like dual crossing gates with lights and bell for my birthday, thinking I could use it in my garden railroad.  However, Walthers tells me that this shouldn't be left outside.  Has anyone had any experience with this?  I'd love to use it but taking it inside after each operating session doesn't sound very practical.  HELP!